How I Spent My Summer Vacation

An Adventure In the Magical World of Medical Care

Remember those grade school essays when the teacher made you write about summer trips to Disney World, or swimming lessons? Well, buckle up, because our summer reads more like a travelogue of exotic medical destinations, than Magic Kingdom.

First up: after thinking last year’s prostate surgery solved all my problems, I won the cancer lottery. When your doctor says, "You can't not treat this," you know you've hit the jackpot nobody wants. Surgery is scheduled for November 17th, because apparently 2,597 other guys before me had the same idea. And I thought I was unique. Take a number and get in line.

Not to be outdone, my right shoulder – which declared war on me in 2015 – finally surrendered, as in quit working like its supposed to. Yesterday, the orthopedic surgeon said my only option was reverse shoulder replacement. Fortunately “reverse” doesn't mean my arm will be attached backwards. Though at this point, nothing would surprise me.

Meanwhile, Debbie decided to launch her own personal battle with the local yellow jacket population. Final score: Yellow Jackets 2, Debbie 0. Each sting came with bonus features: allergic reactions, serious antibiotics, and steroids for six weeks. Just for variety, she added an upper respiratory infection that hung around for three weeks, bringing even more antibiotics and – you guessed it – more steroids. I’m happy to report that this week’s sting (yes, another one) was not from a yellow jacket, but an annoyed bumble bee that did not like being squeezed when Debbie touched his flower. No drugs this time, thank goodness.

The bright spot? Her amazing new art website launched at www.debbiewarnock.art. So the summer wasn't a total disaster. And, I really like the new pieces she has up. Check it out.

Even Buddy, our rescue cat, joined "My Summer at Club Vet." His medical bills now exceed ours, which is saying something. I'm starting a Medicare-for-pets movement.

But, seriously, here's the silver lining: my heart is behaving beautifully. Normal ECGs, solid blood work, and most days I feel good. We're getting things done around the house, enjoying each other's company, and finding joy in the simple fact that we're weathering another storm...together.

So that's where I've been – and why the weekly lectionary posts have taken a backseat. Between surgeries and recoveries, my plate is pretty full. The shoulder replacement will happen either in September – or more likely – in January after I've recovered from saying goodbye to my prostate.

Oh, between medical appointments, I'm working on a book about the origins of human spirituality, and writing romantic comedies. Because nothing says "romance" like surgical recovery, right?

We're grateful for your prayers and support through all of this. We'll be fine – we always are – once we navigate these current medical adventures.

So, how was your summer? Please tell me it involved fewer medical professionals than ours.

Peace,

Chuck